Ethical issues and professional standards in psychotherapy

Several organizational bodies within mental health establish ethical standards and codes, professional and clinical practice guidelines, and resolutions concerning professional activities with the public, including conducting psychotherapy with clients. Ethical standards often cover diverse professional roles including those of practitioners and clinicians, researchers, educators, and consultants. This article provides a brief overview of ethical standards across organizational bodies with a primary focus on the American Psychological Association guidelines and resolutions focusing on serving marginalized and oppressed populations, and unique considerations that impact regulation and oversight of professional behavior in mental health. Lastly, strategies and recommendations for improving the development of these policies and standards are provided.